Tokyo, one of the most renowned metropolitan areas in the world, boasts a population of millions. Among its many neighborhoods, Kichijoji consistently ranks as one of the most desirable places to live. What is it about this area that makes it so beloved by the Japanese public?
According to Savvy Tokyo, a website dedicated to providing lifestyle information for expatriate women, professionals, and families in Tokyo, Kichijoji is located in the Musashino City district in western Tokyo. The neighborhood features an array of charming cafes, live jazz performances, swan boats, theaters, alluring shops, and even a zoo.
Kichijoji is infused with a warm and welcoming vibe, which is partly attributed to its diverse, inclusive, and friendly community atmosphere. Whether visitors explore alone or with friends and family, this area offers a delightful experience worth discovering. Additionally, most attractions are conveniently within walking distance.
The name “Kichijoji” derives from the goddess Kichijoten, revered in both Buddhism and Hinduism. Initially, Kichijoji referred to a temple located in Bunkyo Ward that was dedicated to this goddess. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in a fire in 1657.
Following the fire, the Edo Shogunate distributed new land to displaced residents. To commemorate their original community, the relocated inhabitants decided to name their new neighborhood after their beloved temple, Kichijoji.
Today, Kichijoji remains celebrated as one of the most livable areas in the Tokyo metropolitan region.
Being one of the most desirable neighborhoods undoubtedly means that Kichijoji is home to numerous delightful dining and entertainment options. Here are several of the area’s famous attractions:
**Inokashira Park**
At the heart of Kichijoji lies Inokashira Park, a green oasis that serves as a serene escape. The park features a stunning pond where visitors can rent swan boats. Additionally, there is an enchanting bridge that resembles one featured in Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved animation, “Spirited Away.”
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, Inokashira Park is one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks and offers a prime cherry blossom viewing location, with nearly 500 cherry trees primarily lining the shores of the pond.
During cherry blossom season, Inokashira Park becomes bustling with activity. Many visitors bring food and drinks, spreading picnic mats beneath the cherry trees to relax and enjoy the views. The low-hanging branches of the cherry trees often droop into the water, with petals falling to carpet the pond’s surface.
In addition to the cherry blossoms and the picturesque pond, Inokashira Park also is home to a natural culture zoo (Inokashira Natural Cultural Park), an aquarium, and a shrine. The Ghibli Museum, Mitaka Forest, located at the park’s edge, is also within walking distance but requires tickets to be purchased in advance.
**Inokashira Natural Cultural Park**
As mentioned, Inokashira Natural Cultural Park is primarily a zoo. Beyond its efforts to breed and protect native wildlife, this zoo was once home to the famous elephant Hanako, who was the first elephant to arrive in Japan after World War II and passed away in 2016. A statue of Hanako stands tall at the north exit of Kichijoji Station.
Aside from the zoo, the area also features a botanical garden and an outdoor sculpture museum worth visiting.
**Ghibli Museum, Mitaka Forest**
For those familiar with Miyazaki’s works, the Ghibli Museum appears as a magical and mysterious realm. Tickets must be purchased in advance through Lawson Ticket, and photography is prohibited inside the museum.
**Shopping Districts**
Kichijoji offers a plethora of shopping opportunities. For instance, one can explore Hyakunen for a collection of second-hand books, magazines, DVDs, records, and independently-made publications. Unique sneakers can be found at Skit, which also offers a platform for selling one’s old sports shoes at reasonable prices.
Sun Road is a charming shopping street that epitomizes the heart of Kichijoji, offering a variety of delightful shops and a medley of culinary options to satisfy diverse palates.
Another renowned shopping street is Nakamichi-dori, featuring smaller boutiques and numerous cozy dining spots, making it perfect for an afternoon of exploration.
Since 1972, Kichijoji has celebrated the “Kichijoji Autumn Festival” every autumn at Musashino Hachiman Shrine. In winter, Kichijoji Station is adorned with beautiful illuminations, creating a romantic atmosphere. During the colder months, the tourism bureau organizes the “Roku Shrine Tour,” allowing visitors to embark on a journey of blessings.
In spring, the Kichijoji Music Festival brings jazz concerts, parades, and live band performances to the area. Summer sees Kichijoji join the district’s “Tanabata” celebrations, while in August, the “Bon Odori” festivities take place, featuring dance performances, games, and festival foods.
Transportation to Kichijoji is exceptionally convenient. If traveling from Shinjuku, you can reach Kichijoji in approximately 14 minutes by taking a rapid service on the Chuo Line. From Shibuya, a trip on the Keio Inokashira Line takes about 23 minutes. Additionally, both Haneda and Narita Airports offer direct bus services to Kichijoji Station.